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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – There are several easy and cost-effective ways that homeowners can winterize their homes this storm season. Generac Power Systems offers six easy steps that will save you money while keeping your family and home safe during the long and brutal winter storm season.
Tips to Keep Your Home Safe and Your Energy Bill Down
Though there are many things that homeowners can do to keep their homes safe and their energy bills down this winter, Generac recommends starting with these:
Top Off Your Attic Insulation-A high percentage of heat loss occurs through poorly insulated roofs. Make sure your attic is insulated with the minimum R-value for your climate (up to R-49 for Northern states). Also, check the rim joist areas above the foundation walls, and plug any gaps with fiberglass insulation.
Dial Down the Thermostat-Most people can live comfortably with a temperature around 68 degrees. Setting it lower than that when you’re away or asleep will also save on energy. Consider purchasing a programmable thermostat that will lower the temperature automatically during off-peak times.
Replace or Insulate Windows-Consider replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones, or put up window-insulating kits. The clear plastic film can reduce drafts, saving energy and avoiding the costs of window replacement.
Fill Gaps with Caulk Sealants-Replace old caulk joints around your window and door trim (both inside and outside) that can shrink and leak over time. Use a spray foam sealant to fill in the gaps left around pipes, wires, TV cables or bath and dryer vents.
Get an Energy Audit-Most local utilities can arrange a home energy audit to pinpoint where to focus your winterizing efforts. Thermal-imaging cameras, which use infrared technology to show where heat is escaping the house, are available to rent in many areas, so try one out before winterizing to know exactly what needs to be done.
Install a Source of Backup Power-Because power outages are also a concern during winter storm season, FEMA recommends investing in a source of backup power, like an automatic home standby generator fromGenerac, that automatically provides power for heat and electricity when there is a power outage. Automatic home backup generators turn on as soon as the power goes out and stay on until utility power is restored. That means homeowners won’t lose money on holiday food costs if the refrigerator won’t work during a power outage. And homeowners can still work remotely, even when the power is out, plus families won’t have to relocate to a hotel.
As a leader in power equipment serving residential, light commercial, industrial and construction markets, Generac’s products are available through a broad network of independent dealers, retailers, wholesalers and equipment rental companies. Basic winterizing for a home can be done for less than $200, but by investing in installations like attic insulation and aGenerac home standby generator, you get the best level of protection from winter storms.
Learn More
For more facts and advice on how to stay safe and warm this winter storm season, visit www.generac.com/be-prepared/prepare-for-high-winter-stormsor call 888-GENERAC.
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